A Level Physics (9702) requires a massive jump in analytical thinking compared to IGCSE. It is not enough to just memorize formulas; you need to understand the underlying physical principles.
1. Memorize Definitions Word-for-Word
Cambridge mark schemes are incredibly pedantic when it comes to definitions. If a question asks you to define "Work Done", and you write "Force times distance", you will get 0 marks. You must write "Force multiplied by the distance moved in the direction of the force".
Create flashcards for every single definition in the syllabus.
2. The 6-Mark Explanations
In Paper 2 and Paper 4, you will frequently encounter questions that ask you to "Explain" a phenomenon for 4 to 6 marks. These are easy marks if you know the structure!
Always structure your answer in bullet points. Look at the Mark Schemes on RevisionGrid to see exactly what points the examiners are looking for.
3. Practical Paper (Paper 3)
Do not neglect Paper 3! It is worth a significant percentage of your AS grade. If your school doesn't have a great lab, watch YouTube videos of the experiments. Understand how to calculate absolute and percentage uncertainties, and memorize the standard limitations and improvements for common experiments.
4. Past Paper Grind
Once you finish the syllabus, you should aim to complete at least 5-7 years of past papers for both summer and winter sessions. The more papers you do, the more you will realize that Cambridge has a finite pool of question styles.